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National Youth Development Agency Invites Eligible Participants to Apply for the Emerging Voices Essay Writing Competition. The closing date for entries is 26 June 2026.
South Africa is turning 50 years old since the historic Soweto Uprising. To mark this milestone, the National Youth Development Agency (NYDA) has teamed up with Tshwane University of Technology (TUT), the University of South Africa (UNISA) and the Linguistic Society of Southern Africa (LSSA). Together they are calling on young South Africans to write a short, creative essay about language, identity, memory, resistance and the future of our country.
Who Can Join?
| Category | Who fits this group? |
|---|---|
| Category A | High‑school learners from Grade 8 to Grade 12 |
| Category B | Young creatives and youth professionals, ages 18 – 35 |
Both groups are welcome to share their own point of view. If you are a student, a budding writer, a community activist, a photographer, a designer or anyone who likes to think about South Africa’s story, this competition is for you.
What the Contest Is About
- Topic: Your essay should explore how language shapes who we are, how we remember the past, how we stand up against injustice, and what you imagine for South Africa’s tomorrow.
- Length: 800 words maximum.
- Style: Feel free to use personal stories, poems, or any creative format that fits an essay.
Why You Should Write
- Make your voice heard: Your ideas can add to the national conversation about identity and change.
- Earn recognition: Winning essays will be featured on NYDA’s website and may appear in partner university publications.
- Boost your resume: Participation shows dedication to community issues – a plus for future education or job applications.
How to Enter
- Write your essay following the guidelines above.
- Save the file as a PDF or Word document.
- Email it to AppliedLanguages@tut.ac.za with the subject line “Emerging Voices – Category A” or “Emerging Voices – Category B”, depending on which group you belong to.
- Add your contact details (full name, phone number, school or workplace) in the email body.
If you have any questions about the competition, email Sifundo.Xulu@nyda.gov.za.
Important Dates
- Extended closing date: 26 June 2026 – make sure you send your entry before this day.
- Judging period: Mid‑July 2026 (judges will be teachers, writers and language experts).
- Winners announced: Early August 2026 on the NYDA website and social media channels.
Tips for a Strong Essay
- Start with a hook: Grab the reader’s attention in the first two sentences.
- Tell a personal story: Real experiences make your essay vivid and relatable.
- Use clear language: Write as if you are talking to a friend; avoid overly technical words.
- Proofread: Check spelling, grammar and word count before you hit send.
Your Story Matters
South Africa’s future is built by young people like you. By taking part in the Emerging Voices Essay Writing Competition, you get a platform to share your thoughts, inspire others and help shape the country’s path forward.
Don’t wait—pick up a pen, start drafting, and send your essay before 26 June 2026. Your voice can make a difference.